In the lap of luxury
Jane McGowan enjoys a five-star break at Pennyhill Park in Bagshot, Surrey.
If you are looking for a pre-Christmas, post-Christmas or indeed an anytime-of-the-year indulgence, then a stay at Pennyhill Park is a must.
Situated on the Surrey border setting of Bagshot, the main ‘house’ dates back to 1849 when it was transformed by revered civil engineer James Hodges. Today, the house (along with a tasteful extension) hosts an outstanding mix of 123 individually designed ‘rooms’ that include junior and plush suites, with some boasting a double bathtub or a Jacuzzi.
On entering, the concierge team are on hand to explain and guide you through the details of your stay. If you choose, you can have a guided tour of the property and its extensive grounds, which boast a three-hole golf course and tennis courts.
Nothing is too much trouble, and everyone I encountered was warm, welcoming, and efficient.
I stayed in the Sandown Suite - which was a wonderfully comfortable and spacious set-up complete with two double beds, a sofa and a stylish bathroom boasting a freestanding bath and refreshing shower.
The food
As part of the ‘package’, my companion and I were treated to the Discovery Menu in the Michelin-starred Latymer restaurant, led by head chef Steve Smith.
Each dish is more exquisite than the last, and each mouthful simply demands to be savoured from the convivial ‘snacks’ which included Spenwood & Truffle, a heritage carrot tart and pumpkin espuma to the six-course menu proper. Not forgetting, of course, the hearty breadboard complete with handcrafted cultured butter, which was a surprise highlight.
The courses alternate between fish and meat, featuring Carlingford oysters, followed by Calves’ sweetbread, an Orkney scallop and then Aynhoe park venison, with every intricately presented serving perfectly cooked.
There is also a vegetarian option that blends a tasty mix of seasonal favourites - parsnip, cauliflower and celeriac - and mirrors the artistry and appearance of the meat and fish version.
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Angela Ward Brown
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Angela Ward Brown
The staff are attentive and informed and more than happy to talk through the provenance of the ingredients. The menu can also accompany a wine ‘pairing’ experience. However, we opted for a bottle of Chardonnay, which the sommelier recommended.
Desert was a simply delicious Mango & rice tart with a sharp fruitiness that provided the perfect way to finish such a feast.
While the menu comes in at £175 per person, it is certainly worth pushing the boat out for, and I would say everyone in the packed Thursday-night dining room would agree.
After such a supper, it wasn’t too long before sleep beckoned with dreams of what breakfast would hold!
Different options are offered, with a traditional morning meal in the Hillfield. At the same time, Spa visitors can make their way over to the wellness centre and enjoy a wide range of hot and cold foods, as well as a well-stocked continental buffet.
Trying to start the day as I went on, I opted for the overnight oats with berries, while my friend kept it old school with a full English breakfast, complete with a choice of eggs, bacon, sausages and black pudding. There are plenty of alternatives for vegetarians, vegans et al - simply ask one of the friendly team.
Angela Ward Brown
The spa
On then to the spa and some pampering befitting the palatial surroundings.
On a damp November day, there was definitely nowhere better to be. You are really spoilt for choice as you make your way around three swimming pools (both indoor and outdoor), Jacuzzis - again both indoors and outdoors, an impressive array of thermal cabins offering differing temperatures and aromas, which you can follow with an ‘experience shower’ that include everything from rainforest to Scottish Highland mist.
Myriad treatments are also available, from a couple’s mud massage to eyebrow shaping.
But should this ‘experiencing’ become too much, you can simply head to one of the many loungers or the relaxation room where you can really unwind.
The well-stocked changing rooms are also something to behold where every wish has been catered for - the airy design, copious locker space, hairstyling equipment, and fluffy towels mean you can squeeze out that last bit of luxury until the time comes when you have to leave. But let’s not dwell on that...
The price
- A Spa Day at Pennyhill Park costs £255, Monday to Friday (excluding bank holidays).
- Bed & Breakfast in a Cosy room costs £420 and includes spa access (check-in from 7 pm).
- The Discovery Menu at the Latymer costs £175 per person; the wine pairing costs £135 per person, and three hours should be allowed for dining.
Visit exclusive.co.uk to learn more.
